comely Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite according with custom or propriety
    comme il faut; decent; becoming; seemly; decorous.
    • her becoming modesty
    • comely behavior
    • it is not comme il faut for a gentleman to be constantly asking for money
    • a decent burial
    • seemly behavior
  2. adjective satellite very pleasing to the eye
    sightly; bonnie; fair; bonny.
    • my bonny lass
    • there's a bonny bay beyond
    • a comely face
    • young fair maidens

WordNet

Come"ly adjective
Etymology
OE. comeliche, AS. cymlic; cyme suitable (fr. cuman to come, become) + lic like.
Wordforms
comparative Comelier ; superlative Comeliest
Definitions
  1. Pleasing or agreeable to the sight; well-proportioned; good-looking; handsome.
    He that is comely when old and decrepit, surely was very beautiful when he was young. South.
    Not once perceive their foul disfigurement But boast themselves more comely than before. Milton.
  2. Suitable or becoming; proper; agreeable.
    This is a happier and more comely time Than when these fellows ran about the streets, Crying confusion. Shak.
    It is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant; and praise is comely. Ps. cxlvii. 1.
Come"ly adverb
Definitions
  1. In a becoming manner. Ascham.

Webster 1913